The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 playoffs are set to begin with a high-stakes clash between Punjab Kings (PBKS) and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in Qualifier 1 at Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium, Mullanpur, on May 29, 2025.
Under the leadership of Shreyas Iyer, Punjab Kings have made the playoffs for the first time since 2014, marking a significant turnaround for the franchise. The Iyer-Ricky Ponting (head coach) partnership has transformed PBKS into a consistent and well-balanced unit, finally cracking the code after years of underperformance. The team’s batting lineup has been solid and aggressive, with Prabhsimran Singh and Priyansh Arya setting the foundation for Iyer and Josh Inglis to capitalize. Shashank Singh has emerged as a reliable finisher, while Marcus Stoinis has found his rhythm at the right time.
However, PBKS faces challenges in the bowling department, especially after the departure of South African pacer Marco Jansen, who returned home for national duty. Kyle Jamieson showed promise in his debut but needs to step up, while Azmatullah Omarzai could take Jansen’s spot. The return of Yuzvendra Chahal from injury will be crucial, alongside Harpreet Brar and Arshdeep Singh, who have been standout performers.
RCB, led by Virat Kohli, is no stranger to playoff heartbreaks and is determined to end its title drought. The team has been branded as top-heavy for years, but this season has seen middle-order players like Jitesh Sharma step up.
RCB’s batting strength lies in Phil Salt’s explosive starts and Kohli’s consistency, as he has been racking up fifties with ease. The team will also take confidence from their league-stage victory over PBKS at this venue.
In the bowling department, Josh Hazlewood is expected to regain full fitness, while Tim David’s availability will add balance to the squad.
